Iranian Military Chief Threatens Preemptive Strike Following Trump’s Warning on Protesters
TEHRAN, Iran — The head of Iran’s military issued a stark warning of preemptive action against perceived threats following President Donald Trump’s recent declaration that the United States is “locked and loaded” to intervene if Iranian authorities kill protesters. The comments come amid widespread demonstrations across Iran fueled by economic hardships and political grievances.
Maj. Gen. Amir Hatami, addressing military academy students, responded to Trump’s remarks by emphasizing Iran’s readiness to counter any aggression. Citing state media, The Associated Press reported Hatami’s declaration: “The Islamic Republic considers the intensification of such rhetoric against the Iranian nation as a threat and will not leave its continuation without a response.” He added, “I can say with confidence that today the readiness of Iran’s armed forces is far greater than before the war. If the enemy commits an error, it will face a more decisive response, and we will cut off the hand of any aggressor.”
Trump’s warning, posted on his social media platform Truth Social, underscored America’s willingness to act if Iran violently suppresses peaceful protesters. He wrote, “If Iran shoots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go.” This firm stance follows the recent successful U.S. operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture and extradition of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, signaling a more assertive American foreign policy posture.
The ongoing protests in Iran have been driven largely by economic distress, including soaring food prices and currency devaluation. In response, Iran’s government announced a subsidy increase to more than double the previous aid, providing approximately $7 monthly to over 71 million citizens to help offset rising costs for staples such as rice, meat, and pasta, according to reports from the Associated Press. Despite these measures, inflation remains acute, with prices for essential goods like cooking oil reportedly expected to triple.
The unrest has drawn international attention and condemnation over the Iranian regime’s treatment of demonstrators. The U.S. Department of State has repeatedly expressed concern over human rights violations amid the crackdown. Iranian opposition groups, including the National Council of Resistance of Iran, have publicized images and reports of protests spreading to multiple cities, further challenging the regime’s control.
Amid this volatile climate, Iran’s military leadership appears determined to project strength and deter foreign intervention. Analysts note that Hatami’s remarks serve both as a domestic signal of resilience and a warning to external actors. The U.S. Department of Defense continues to monitor developments closely, with officials emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians while avoiding escalation.
As tensions simmer, the international community watches closely, aware that missteps could rapidly escalate into broader conflict. The situation remains fluid, with economic pressures and political dissent fueling uncertainty about Iran’s immediate future.
Leave a Reply